Q03: How to clean the firefighting suits? / KANOX® Fire-Resistant Fabrics: Comprehensive Range of Protective Solutions

Q03: How to clean the firefighting suits? / Taiwan K.K. Corp. offers you innovative fire resistant fabrics, flame retardant clothing, and high performance turnout gears at reasonable costs.

Q03: How to clean the firefighting suits?

Firefighter protective clothing must be kept clean to ensure its optimal performance. Contaminated suit carries less insulation, is more likely to conduct heat, lacks liquid shedding properties, and can become potentially flammable. Moreover, many fireground contaminants are carcinogens and skin toxic chemicals. Cleaning suits after each use helps prevent cross-contamination. Firefighting suit needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent these problems. Yet, improper cleaning can also destroy clothing or worsen its protective performance.

After cleaning, Drying should be followed to complete the cleaning procedure. Drying firefighting suit is a crucial part of its maintenance. Proper drying helps prevent damage, mold growth, and ensures that the gear remains safe and ready for the next use. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for the care and maintenance of firefighting suit, as specific instructions may vary based on the materials used in the suit's construction.


Routine Cleaning : Perform the followings after each use:
• Remove Loose Debris : Brush off or gently shake the gear to remove loose debris.
• Pre-Rinse with water : Use a hose or gentle stream of water to pre-rinse the suit to remove surface contaminants. Or drain and refill water from sink repeatedly until the suit is rinsed when cleaning in a utility sink.
• Wash : Scrub gently the stained area with soft bristle brush (avoid knitted cuffs, reflective strips and liner).
• Rinse : Thoroughly rinse the suit to remove contaminated residue.

   ►► Finally, Clean again as necessary

Advanced Cleaning : Regularly, subject clothing to more thorough cleaning. 
 

  • Soaking : Soak the suit with detergent and water for 30 to 60 minutes.  Do not soak for too long to prevent reverse contamination.
  • Hand Wash : Complete the whole process of Routine Cleaning.
  • Machine Wash:

       - Prewash the machine to prevent cross contamination.

       - Don’t overload the machine.

       - Fasten all closures (pocket closures, hook and loop, snaps, zippers).

       - Turn garment inside out and place in a mesh laundry bag.

       - Tumble washing machine with low rotate speed and water temperature 40° C / 104° F is recommended. 

*PRECAUTION*

  • Use detergent which PH value between 6.0~10.5 only.
  • Do not share washing machine with non-firefighting clothing to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Do not use dry cleaning as the ingredients of dry-cleaning solvent may damage the fire resistant fibers.
  • Wear protective gloves & eye/face splash protection when cleaning.

Drying : Drying suits thoroughly after each use is essential not only for comfort but also for maintaining its performance.

Hang to Air Dry :

- Hang the firefighting suit in a well-ventilated area to air dry.  The suits should be hung in a way that allows air to circulate around it fully.  A fan could be used to speed up the drying process.
- Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can degrade the fabrics over time.

Machine Drying :

- Do not overload capacity of machine; use “no heat” or “air dry only” option.
- Temperature should not exceed 40° C / 104° F.

Relative Links :
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To be a global performance leader for firefighting suits and inherently fire resistant fabrics.

Q03: How to clean the firefighting suits? | KANOX® Fire-Resistant Fabrics: Comprehensive Range of Protective Solutions

Established in 1976, Taiwan K.K. Corporation is headquartered in Taiwan and excels in developing and producing top-tier fire retardant fabrics. Our flagship products, the KANOX® and GORNOX series, are highly esteemed for their superior protection and durability in industrial and safety applications. Committed to innovation and stringent quality standards, KANOX® delivers reliable fire-resistant materials that meet the rigorous demands of various industries, ensuring maximum safety and performance through state-of-the-art manufacturing and comprehensive quality control processes.

KANOX® products are engineered for exceptional durability, enduring the toughest conditions while ensuring optimal performance. Our fire retardant fabrics meet and exceed international safety standards, holding certifications such as ISO 9001, NFPA, and EN. This rigorous certification process guarantees that our fabrics provide reliable, long-lasting protection in critical applications. Our commitment to quality and adherence to stringent certification standards highlight KANOX® as a global leader in fire-resistant materials, trusted for safety and reliability.

With over 48 years of experience and advanced technology, KANOX® FR Fabrics / SUPER ARMOR® Turnout Gears offers top-quality protective fire-resistant clothing for firefighters, ensuring each customer's needs are met.